CelticBalla's 06-07 NBA Season Preview/Predictions Thread

Re: CelticBalla's 06-07 NBA Season Preview/Predictions Thread

This thread includes my full analysis of each division with predicted standings and playoff predictions (seeding, round 1 to the Finals) for both conferences. Also, I will predict each individual award winner. Here goes:<span style="font-size:18pt;line-height:100%"><span style="color:#3333FF">Eastern Conference</span></span><span style="color:#3333FF">Atlantic Division</span>1. New Jersey NetsBarring any major injuries, New Jersey owns this division. Plain and simple: New Jersey is an elite team in the Eastern Conference and the Atlantic Division is the weakest division in the entire NBA by far. Everybody already knows about the big 3 (Jason Kidd, Vince Carter, Richard Jefferson), so I don't even have to say anything about them. But watch out for Nenad Krstic. He has one more year of experience under his belt and he improves every year. Also, don't sleep on the other role players on the team. Jason Collins is a good defensive presence and he can rebound, Marcus Williams is a top 10 rookie this year and he's going to contribute a lot off the bench, Antoine Wright is going into his 2nd year and he worked hard this summer on his overall game, Cliff Robinson is the "old man" and provides veteran leadership and experience, and when Josh Boone comes back his intangibles and rebounding is going be key for this team. There is one other guy that I really like though: Bostjan Nachbar. He is a much better player than people think, and he is going to mean a lot for this team this year. But to close this out, Nobody in this division has any shot at taking it over New Jersey unless there is a major injury.2. Boston CelticsYoung, sure. Lacking great coaching, sure. Doesn't necessarily have a set rotation, sure. But this team is going to surprise this year (in a way). Everyone knows the deal with Paul Pierce, so I don't need to say anything further about him except that he is sold on the direction of this team (hence the 3-year extension he signed this summer) and he's ready to work and move up. But another key thing is Wally Szczerbiak being healthy and having a full camp under his belt with this team. Also, you have to mention the two new PG's (Sebastian Telfair and Rajon Rondo) who give this team a whole new outlook. They are going to produce big for this team this year. We now have a valid 6th man as well in Delonte West, a new and improved Al Jefferson, a veteran presence and basket protector in Theo Ratliff, defense in Tony Allen (and Rondo), and an up-and-comer in Gerald Green. This team is going to make some mistakes due to age and some inexperience, sure, but the Celtics are a better team than they were last season and they also have a more "let's get down to business and win" attitude.3. New York KnicksOn paper, they are one of the most talented teams in the NBA, no question. These guys are contenders in a video game, but that doesn't translate to winning real ballgames when you have 3 guards that look to score every possession (Marbury, Francis, Crawford), and not to mention Jalen Rose and Quentin Richardson who really like to shoot the ball. I like the frontline of Eddy Curry, Channing Frye, and David Lee, and I also like the addition of Jared Jeffries for defense and intangibles. But there is no chemistry on this team whatsoever and no matter how talented you are, you can't win in the NBA without some chemistry and will to diminish your role. Stephon Marbury, Steve Francis, Jamal Crawford, Jalen Rose, Quentin Richardson - none of those guys are going to lower their role. I am, however, putting them at #3 (as opposed to most people's rankings at #5) because I think their talent alone mixed with a new coach (Isiah Thomas, who will let them run a more free-flowing offense) will win them SOME games. I also wouldn't even be surprised if something clicked in their heads by the All-Star break and possibly they move to #2, but as of right now I am saying 3.4. Toronto RaptorsToronto is an improved team, no doubt, and they have a bright future. But I think the young core in Boston mixed with Pierce/Szczerbiak is much better and much deeper, and again the Knicks are just too talented. Chris Bosh will be an All-Star again, obviously, and TJ Ford will run this team pretty well. Also, Morris Peterson is the NBA's #1 iron-man and he's getting better year in and year out. But at the end of the day, they have no center, no defense, and not much of a bench. Give Toronto 1 or 2 more years before they become an Atlantic Division contender.5. Philadelphia 76ersAllen Iverson is great, Iguodala is improving, and Dalembert WILL have a good year (my opinion). But other than that, they have a washed up Chris Webber and nothing else at all. I like Carney, and I think he's going to be a good player, but not this year. Willie Green is nothing to brag about, and he's starting. Kyle Korver is a terrific shooter but take that shot away he's not in the NBA. Steven Hunter is an average backup. Shavlik Randolph is a great hustler, and I like his toughness, but again - nothing to brag about. Same with Kevin Ollie. I mean this organization is going nowhere anytime soon. I think they need to trade Allen Iverson for a young player or two and a pick or two. If this team keeps trying to win with a roster like this, they are going nowhere but down, and AI/C-Webb aren't getting any younger. I just don't see how they finish higher than last in this division.<span style="color:#3333FF">Central Division</span>1. Chicago BullsThis team was good and promising last year, now they added Ben Wallace, PJ Brown, Tyrus Thomas, and Thabo Sefolosha. This is going to be a very good team this year, and in my opinion the Bulls are the deepest team in the entire league. They have a handful of young stars (Hinrich, Deng, Nocioni, Gordon) as well as an potential future star (Tyrus Thomas). They now have a real force down low defensively in Ben Wallace, and he is also a face-of-the-franchise type of guy. Scott Skiles is a terrific coach and he has gotten this team to be arguably the best defensive team in the league now, plus they have some real good perimeter offense. They even have a leader off the bench in Chris Duhon who defends, shoots, makes plays, and hustles. My only concern with this team in the playoffs is lack of a real low-post scorer, but I think they will win this division.2. Detroit PistonsDetroit lost Big Ben, but don't write them off just yet. They still have 4 All-Star caliber players (Billups, Wallace, Hamilton, and maybe Prince), a solid center (Nazr), a good 6th man (McDyess), one of the best defensive PG's in the NBA (Hunter), a pretty good 2-guard off the bench in Flip Murray, and some young energy players in Maxiell (who has been great lately), Dupri, and Johnson. Plus a veteran presence of Dale Davis. I mean sure this team lost their main defensive force down low, but they are still an elite team. Don't write off the Detroit Pistons, but Cleveland is right on their tail.3. Cleveland CavaliersI think it's possible this team could take #2, and they even have an outside shot at taking the #1 spot in this division. But as of right now, I think Chicago gets it and Detroit still gets the respected upper-hand for #2. But I think LeBron James is going to be the MVP of the league, and this team is only getting better. They didn't make any major moves this summer and they have gained team chemistry, two pretty solid rookies in Shannon Brown and Daniel Gibson, Verajoe is a huge energizer off the bench an he's 1 more year mature, Drew Gooden signed the extension, and most importantly a healthy Larry Hughes. If this team takes the #2 spot in this division I wouldn't be surprised, and again they even have an outside shot at taking the #1 spot.4. Indiana PacersIndiana is still a playoff team and they got stronger this year by bringing back Al Harrington and adding Marquis Daniels. I really like this team, and it's very hard to put them at #4 in this division, but this is one of the best divisions in the NBA and I don't think they are on Chicago/Detroit/Cleveland's level. I really love the depth of this team and they definitely have a great coach, but the injury bug always bites Indiana more than once. Jermaine O'Neal, as good as he is, is never healthy for a full season, Jamaal Tinsley is only good for 55-60 games, and not to mention the off-court issues with Jackson/Tinsley (Jackson shooting a gun and Tinsley having weed/gun). There are too many question marks injury-wise in Indiana. When healthy though, this team is a threat.5. Milwaukee BucksSolid young team and they have a shot at a very low seed in the playoffs again, but there is just no way they are better than Chicago, Detroit, Cleveland, or Indiana at all. I think Bogut is going to be a very good player, Villanueva as well, Redd is already an established All-Star caliber swingman, Mo Williams is very underrated, and the bench isn't really that bad. This team is solid, but nothing jumps out at you at this point in time, especially when comparing them to the likes of the teams in this division. No way this team finishes anywhere else but 5th.<span style="color:#3333FF">Southeast Division</span>1. Miami HeatThe reigning champs will not fall short of anything other than #1 seed in this division. I mean they are just too good/deep. I know I know, they are getting old and Shaq is declining. But they are still the best team in the East for sure, and maybe the NBA still. Wade is a legit MVP candidate, the presence of Shaq is much more valuable than the stat sheet tells you, Antoine Walker is a good 3rd guy, Zo is still a force, Haslem is a guy that flirts with a double-double every night, Posey is a great energizer, GP is still a good defender and leader, J-Will is a good offensive player, Pat Riley is a great coach, etc. It's the same team as last year except they have a ring and much more chemistry under their belts. Miami wins the division again, no doubt.2. Washington WizardsThe Wiz didn't lose anybody from last year except Jared Jeffries and they added Stevenson for league minimum and a solid forward off the bench in Songaila. Gilbert Arenas and Antawn Jamison are two All-Star players and Caron Butler is on the way there. I really like the role players on this team in Daniels, Haywood, Thomas, Stevenson, Songaila, Ruffin. But one guy that goes unforgotten due to health problems in the past couple years is Jarvis Hayes. He is a really good scorer off the bench and if he's healthy he will contribute a lot. Washington makes the playoffs again.3. Orlando MagicOrlando really turned some heads in the last couple months of the season last year, and they are going to be a potential playoff team this year. Dwight Howard is one more year improved, which is great, and I believe he will lead the league in rebounding. Jameer Nelson is going to really start to turn some heads, and Darko has a chance to as well. Turkoglu is a reliable player, Arroyo/Bogans/Battie play their roles well, Dooling is a burst of energy and defense, Redick is a dynamite shooter, and Grant Hill is playing well (for now). If Hill is healthy, which is very unlikely due to his history, this team is a playoff team. But I don't see that all year long, so I say they are a borderline playoff team. They could make it, but they also could fall short again. I really love the future of this team, especially with their cap space. Orlando could really turn some heads this year.4. Charlotte BobcatsIn one or two years this team is going to be a real legit playoff contending team, but it all lies on Emeka Okafor's shoulders. Without his presence, this team is going to continue to struggle. If Okafor stays healthy, I love the future of this team. They have Felton (who will have a good year) as their PG of now and the future, Gerald Wallace who is a beast in every category, Brevin Knight as the floor general, Adam Morrison for scoring, Brezec is a solid center, and Ely is a solid backup center. But who I really like is Sean May. If he can stay healthy as well, he's going to be dynamite off the bench. Watch out for May. But as of right now, they aren't better than Orlando and injuries are a big concern. If Okafor stays healthy then I say this team takes 4th place in this division, but if not Atlanta will take it.5. Atlanta HawksAn improved team. I love the additions of Speedy Claxton, Shelden Williams, and Lorenzen Wright. Speedy gives them a legit starting PG, Shelden gives them much needed rebounding and toughness underneath, and Wright gives them a solid veteran center. It is unfortunate that Marvin Williams broke his hand (and will miss the first 2 months of the season), but the young core on this team is very good. Joe Johnson is a legit All-Star caliber player who does a little bit of everything. Josh Smith is an absolute monster, and he is going to have a breakout year in my opinion. Marvin Williams has a lot of potential, as does Shelden Williams. Zaza is a solid young center, Childress is a good 6th man, and Stoudamire is a lights-out shooter. Like I said above, if Charlotte can't stay healthy (Okafor, May, Wallace), Atlanta will take 4th place.<span style="color:#3333FF">Predicted Eastern Conference Standings</span>1. Miami Heat2. Chicago Bulls3. Detroit Pistons4. Cleveland Cavaliers5. New Jersey Nets6. Indiana Pacers7. Washington Wizards8. Boston Celtics9. Orlando Magic10. Milwaukee Bucks11. New York Knicks12. Toronto Raptors13. Philadelphia 76ers14. Charlotte Bobcats15. Atlanta Hawks<span style="color:#3333FF">Eastern Conference Finalists</span>Miami Heat vs. Chicago Bulls, Miami wins in 7<span style="color:#3333FF">Eastern Conference Champions</span>Miami Heat<span style="font-size:18pt;line-height:100%"><span style="color:#FF0000">Western Conference</span></span><span style="color:#FF0000">Northwest Division</span>1. Denver NuggetsDenver has the same team as last year, plus a healthy Nene and more importantly two solid SG options in Smith and Diawara. Smith provides the much needed shooting on this team, and he also will be good in the up-tempo system due to his athleticism. Diawara is a terrific defender and he will be big off the bench for them this year. But this teams' frontline is much stronger than it was last year, especially in the playoffs. Not only is Nene back, but K-Mart has supposedly cooled down his differences with coach Karl, Reggie Evans re-signed, and Joe Smith is a very solid veteran to have off the bench. The man I really want to talk about is Carmelo Anthony. He put in an extensive amount of work this summer and he's really going to shine this year. Melo will be an All-Star this year, and he has improved his all-around game (especially defensively, where he has impressed the hell out of me so far). He's becoming a leader, and Carmelo is going to have a very big year. Denver is going to make more noise this year in the playoffs and make up for last years' terrible performance.2. Utah JazzUtah also has improved this offseason. Not only did they add an experienced guard in Derek Fisher, but Ronnie Brewer was a great draft pick and they also got two pretty good 2nd rounders in Paul Millsap and Dee Brown. Also, my boy Deron Williams has looked good as of late and he could have a good year. But the big mystery/concern with this team is injuries. AK47 is out sometimes and Carlos Boozer just hasn't been able to stay healthy these past 2 seasons. I'm not as worried about Kirilenko's health as I am about Boozer's, but if these two guys can stay healthy Utah will definitely give Denver a run for their money for the division crown.3. Minnesota TimberwolvesI feel bad for Kevin Garnett, I really do. Kevin McHale hasn't done much at all to show that he really wants to win in Minnesota. Now, he picked up Mike James this summer (20 point scorer, hard worker) and had a good draft in getting Randy Foye and Craig Smith. But the problem is the fact that he picked up both of them. Mike James, Randy Foye, and the #1 swingman Ricky Davis all need the ball to be effective. I don't think they should have picked up Mike James. They should have went after a playmaking PG. Also, the big men on this team (other than KG of course) are nothing to brag about. Mark Blount, Eddie Griffin, Mark Madsen, Vin Baker, and Craig Smith just doesn't cut it, especially in the Western Conference. The Wolves, IMO, need to fire McHale, trade KG, and totally rebuild.4. Seattle SonicsSeattle really didn't do anything this summer, and they made a very questionable pick in the lottery this year by selecting Saer Sene. Robert Swift, who was supposed to be the starting center, went down with a season ending knee injury, so that is a huge blow for Seattle. Johan Petro is a solid young big, but he is not a starting caliber center yet. I like the trio of Ray Allen, Rashard Lewis, and Chris Wilcox, but the bench is not strong whatsoever and they really don't have any "up-and-comers" to be excited about. Luke Ridnour is a good playmaker, but he can't guard a chair. I like Earl Watson, and I believe he's the best PG in Seattle, but other than Watson and Collison, Seattle doesn't have a good bench at all. That's adding to the loss of their starting center. I don't think Seattle is going to beat out Minnesota this year.5. Portland Trail BlazersPortland is finally shaping up. They have done a good job at getting all of the negative-energy players out of there (except Darius Miles), and they have a real nice looking young core. I like the addition of Jamal Magloire as well. But the young core of Brandon Roy, Jarrett Jack, Martell Webster, and LaMarcus Aldridge mixed with Zach Randolph and some solid vets in Przybilla/Magloire/LaFrentz/Dixon looks nice, and I'm looking forward to watching them progress. The key word in all of this is "future" however, and I don't see them doing much this year.<span style="color:#FF0000">Pacific Division</span>1. Phoenix SunsPhoenix is one of the top 5 teams in the entire NBA, and with a healthy Amare Stoudemire and Kurt Thomas, they are going to be 10 times more dangerous. Not to mention the additions of defensive assassin Marcus Banks and a solid forward in Jumaine Jones, and Leandro Barbosa on the verge of a breakout-like year. Phoenix is not only a lock to win this division, but they are going to be a legit NBA Championship contender this year. It will be very interesting to see how Amare bounces back.2. Los Angeles ClippersSame team as last year except they now have a healthy Corey Maggette (who is a legit 20 point scorer) and Shaun Livingston progressing nicely. Elton Brand is an MVP candidate type of player, Sam Cassell is a very good PG and very experienced, Chris Kaman (hopefully he signs that extension soon) is a nightly double-double, Quinton Ross is an excellent defender, and Tim Thomas is ok off the bench (as much as I absolutely hate him). I am also expecting Yaroslav Korolev to show some decent improvements this year. But a healthy Corey Maggette is key for this team, and if he can stay healthy that will be huge.3. Los Angeles LakersThey didn't make many moves this summer, but they built chemistry. They did add a very good shooter/role player in Vladimir Radmanovic though, and I think he'll have a sold year in the triangle offense (he will get a lot of easy open shots). Kwame Brown is going to miss a little time to start the year, but I'm telling you he is going to really improve and prove to be a legit center, and Chris Mihm is solid off the bench. Ronny Turiaf looked real nice in preseason and he will provide much needed toughness/rebounding off the bench. Mo Evans is a solid replacement for Deaven George, his athleticism will fit nicely in LA, plus he's a solid defender. Of course, they have one of the favorites every year to win MVP in Kobe Bryant (KB24 now), and a legit 2nd option in Lamar Odom. I think LA is going to start off slow, but I think they will explode in the 2nd half of the year and be ready for the playoffs.4. Sacramento KingsThe loss of Bonzi Wells isn't great, but the addition of John Salmons is solid, plus Kevin Martin is really showing up. I think the Kings are going to make the playoffs, but they won't get it so easily with New Orleans improving. This team still lacks a backup PG, a backup center, and a reliable PF, but they will be ok. They have 3 All-Star caliber players in Ron Artest, Mike Bibby, and Brad Miller. I don't think this team is going to improve or regress much from last season's performance.5. Golden State WarriorsNellie is the perfect coach for this team, and small-ball is the way to go with their current roster. But they really need a reliable center. Troy Murphy is going to be the 5 this year, but he can't guard good centers in the post. No way. Mike Dunleavy at the 4? Eh... I am looking forward to Monta Ellis and Ike Diogu having good years, but this team isn't going to cut it. They make way too many mistakes, they have no reliable center, and their best player (Baron Davis) is always a little overweight and injury prone. I think Golden State is going to be one of the bottom teams in the league this year again.<span style="color:#FF0000">Southwest Division</span>1. Dallas MavericksDallas is my early pick to win the whole thing this year. They have it all. Pretty much the same roster as last year, plus some nice additions. AJ is a good tough defender and a very solid backup PG option, Greg Buckner is a good defender and a good 3 point shooter, Maurice Ager is going to be a good player in the future, Austin Croshere will do basically what Van Horn did last year for this team, and Deaven George has been there and done that. Devin Harris will have a bigger role this year, Josh Howard will be an All-Star player in no time, and Diop is really showing a lot. Dirk is a top 5 MVP candidate and they have one of the best coaches in the league and a great fan base. Dallas gets it done at home and on the road, and I think they are going to win the championship this season.2. San Antonio SpursSan Antonio is going to come back very hungry and I think they will have a little chip on their shoulder because of what happened last year in Game 7. I also think Tim Duncan is going to have a "bounce-back" year and return to form. Tony Parker gets better every year, and I like the addition of Francisco Elson. This is the same old Spurs team we have seen the past few years, and I expect nothing less than a championship contending team. In the playoffs, these guys are really going to bring everything they have, and I wouldn't be surprised if they won the championship either.3. Houston RocketsSTAY HEALTHY! PLEASE! If this team stays healthy, they are a huge threat. Yao is the best center in the NBA right now, Tracy McGrady is a top 5 player when healthy, Shane Battier is an excellent role player, Bonzi Wells is a good player, Rafer Alston is a very solid PG, Dikembe Mutombo is still a defensive force, Juwan Howard will be a solid 6th man, and the bench backcourt of Luther Head and Kirk Snyder is alright. I also really like Chuck Hayes (excellent rebounder) and Steve Novak (dynamite shooter). This team plays good defense and they have a lot of offensive weapons, not to mention two franchise-caliber players (one being a center as well, that's rare). Houston is going to make a LOT of noise if they stay healthy.4. New Orleans/Oklahoma City HornetsI have Sacramento making the playoffs over them, but they definitely have a legit shot at making it. This is one of the most improved teams this year by far, and CP3 Chris Paul has 1 year under his belt. Peja Stojakovic is going to get a lot of easy shots from Chris Paul, and David West is still improving. Tyson Chandler gives them a real defensive presence and a rebounder, and Bobby Jackson is a very good 6th man option. I also really liked the draft they had in getting Hilton Armstrong (athletic, long, strong, good rebounder, shot blocker, controls the paint defensively) and Cedric Simmons (explosive, can score, tough, physical). This team is vastly improved, and they could make the playoffs, but it's no easy task getting over Sacramento or the LA Lakers.5. Memphis GrizzliesAs soon as I heard about Pau Gasol being out until January, I knew the Grizzlies were going to have a "lost season." I like their team, I really do, but without Pau Gasol they have absolutely NOTHING down low. Stromile Swift is a big underachiever and he really didn't want to go back to Memphis at all. Jake Tsakalidis your starting center? Enough said. These boys are going to get banged up in the paint this year, and their team as a whole isn't very reliable. Damon Stoudamire is coming off a season ending injury from last season, who knows how he bounces back. Eddie Jones is getting older, and they lost Bobby Jackson. Mike Miller is a good player, but now he is their #1 option. I don't know how well he can handle that. Rudy Gay has a tremendous amount of upside, but he's not going to be a huge difference maker this season. I like Hakim Warrick as well, and he's improved, but he's really not the answer to fill in for Pau Gasol's absences at all. Without Pau, this team is done.<span style="color:#FF0000">Predicted Western Conference Standings</span>1. Dallas Mavericks2. Phoenix Suns3. San Antonio Spurs4. Houston Rockets5. Denver Nuggets6. Los Angeles Clippers7. Los Angeles Lakers8. Sacramento Kings9. New Orleans/Oklahoma City Hornets10. Utah Jazz11. Minnesota Timberwolves12. Seattle Sonics13. Memphis Grizzlies14. Golden State Warriors15. Portland Trail Blazers<span style="color:#FF0000">Western Conference Finalists</span>Dallas Mavericks vs. San Antonio Spurs, Dallas wins in 7<span style="color:#FF0000">Western Conference Champions</span>Dallas Mavericks<span style="color:#000000">2007 NBA Finals</span>Dallas Mavericks vs. Miami Heat<span style="color:#000000">NBA Champions</span>Dallas Mavericks<span style="color:#000000">Finals MVP</span>Dirk Nowitzki<span style="font-size:18pt;line-height:100%">2006-2007 NBA Awards Predictions</span><u>MVP</u>: LeBron James (CLE)Honorable Mentions: Kobe Bryant (LAL), Dirk Nowitzki (DAL), Dwyane Wade (MIA), Tracy McGrady (HOU)<u>Rookie of the Year</u>: Brandon Roy (POR)Honorable Mentions: Adam Morrison (CHA), Randy Foye (MIN), Rudy Gay (MEM), Shelden Williams (ATL)<u>Defensive Player of the Year</u>: Bruce Bowen (SA)Honorable Mentions: Ron Artest (SAC), Ben Wallace (CHI), Gerald Wallace (CHA), Andrei Kirilenko (UTA)<u>Most Improved Player of the Year</u>: Josh Smith (ATL)Honorable Mentions: Jarrett Jack (POR), Jameer Nelson (ORL), Leandro Barbosa (PHO), Al Jefferson (BOS)<u>Sixth Man of the Year</u>: Andres Nocioni (CHI)Honorable Mentions: Delonte West (BOS), Antonio McDyess (DET), Leandro Barbosa (PHO), Jamal Crawford (NY)<u>Coach of the Year</u>: Scott Skiles (CHI)Honorable Mentions: Mike Brown (CLE), Byron Scott (NOK), Jeff Van Gundy (HOU), George Karl (DEN)All-NBA First TeamC: Yao Ming (HOU)F: Dirk Nowitzki (DAL)F: LeBron James (CLE)G: Kobe Bryant (LAL)G: Dwyane Wade (MIA)All-NBA Second TeamC: Shaquille O'Neal (MIA)F: Tim Duncan (SA)F: Tracy McGrady (HOU)G: Steve Nash (PHO)G: Chauncey Billups (DET)All-NBA Third TeamC: Ben Wallace (CHI)F: Elton Brand (LAC)F: Carmelo Anthony (DEN)G: Paul Pierce (BOS)G: Gilbert Arenas (WAS)All-NBA Defensive First TeamC: Ben Wallace (CHI)F: Ron Artest (SAC)F: Andrei Kirilenko (UTA)G: Bruce Bowen (SA)G: Gerald Wallace (CHA)All-NBA Defensive Second TeamC: Marcus Camby (DEN)F: Tim Duncan (SA)F: Shawn Marion (PHO)G: Kobe Bryant (LAL)G: Jason Kidd (NJ)NBA All Rookie First TeamBrandon Roy (POR)Adam Morrison (CHA)Rudy Gay (MEM)Shelden Williams (ATL)Randy Foye (MIN)NBA All-Rookie Second TeamMarcus Williams (NJ)Rajon Rondo (BOS)Ronnie Brewer (UTA)Andrea Bargnani (TOR)Tyrus Thomas (CHI)EDIT: Just noticed a few typos.

 

Re: CelticBalla's 06-07 NBA Season Preview/Predictions Thread

I like most of it. Or course I think my Sonics will do better. Swift going down will be a blessing in disguise, Collison will get more minutes, and be is being so aggressive it will be great for us. I have them beating Minasota.Aside from that Bucks to beat Indy- they were pretty much a .500 team last year. The addition of Villy is worth 5-6 wins alone. They will make the play offs and like I said beat Indy.I think the Spurs will win it and should the Lakers make the playoffs- KB24 for MVP- if not I think your right-LBJGreat read and good rankings Keep it up.

 

Re: CelticBalla's 06-07 NBA Season Preview/Predictions Thread

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE (Clangus @ Oct 28 2006, 06:22 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}></div><div class='quotemain'>I like most of it. Or course I think my Sonics will do better. Swift going down will be a blessing in disguise, Collison will get more minutes, and be is being so aggressive it will be great for us. I have them beating Minasota.Aside from that Bucks to beat Indy- they were pretty much a .500 team last year. The addition of Villy is worth 5-6 wins alone. They will make the play offs and like I said beat Indy.I think the Spurs will win it and should the Lakers make the playoffs- KB24 for MVP- if not I think your right-LBJGreat read and good rankings Keep it up.</div>Milwaukee over Indiana? Wow, I strongly disagree. Villanueva won't add 5-6 wins. You are failing to mention that Milwaukee also lost their PG. Now, Mo Williams is a good player (and underrated), but he's not the playmaker Ford is. I don't see them improving. Not to mention, they did lose Joe Smith.Center<u>Indiana</u>: Jermaine O'Neal<u>Milwaukee</u>: Andrew BogutIndiana obviously has the edge.Power Forward<u>Indiana</u>: Al Harrington<u>Milwaukee</u>: Charlie VillanuevaVillanueva is a good young player, but at this point Harrington is the better player. Indiana gets the edge at PF too.Small Forward<u>Indiana</u>: Danny Granger<u>Milwaukee</u>: Bobby SimmonsDanny Granger is better than Bobby Simmons. He's a better defender, better rebounder, more athletic, and he can play the 4 too. Once again, Indiana gets the edge.Shooting Guard<u>Indiana</u>: Stephen Jackson<u>Milwaukee</u>: Michael ReddMilwaukee definitely gets the edge here.Point Guard<u>Indiana</u>: Jamaal Tinsley<u>Milwaukee</u>: Mo WilliamsEven, but only because Tinsley is hurt all the time. When healthy, Tinsley is a top 12-15 PG in the NBA, but I'll call it even because Tins is out a lot.Right there, Indiana wins 3-1 with one tie.Bench<u>Indiana</u>: Marquis Daniels, Jeff Foster, Sarunas Jasikevicius, David Harrison, Shawne Williams, James White, Darrell Armstrong<u>Milwaukee</u>: Charlie Bell, Steve Blake, Ruben Patterson, Brian Skinner, Dan Gadzuric, Ersan Illyosova, Lynn GreerIndiana definitely gets the edge with the bench, no contest really.Coaching<u>Indiana</u>: Rick Carlisle<u>Milwaukee</u>: Terry StottsCarlisle is one of the top coaches in the entire NBA. Indiana easily wins.Now, how can you say Milwaukee has the better team?

 

Re: CelticBalla's 06-07 NBA Season Preview/Predictions Thread

That's a terrible way to compare two teams. It gives you nothing. Compare offense and defense.As for your preview, I say:Raptors>KnicksPistons>>>BullsBut I have the Mavs winning it all too. The predictions are pretty fair. I'd give ROY to Randy Foye, and I don't think Barbosa will be in the running for 6th Man or MIP. Boris Diaw will be coming off the bench, and I would put Zaza Pachulia as the other MIP candidate.

 

Re: CelticBalla's 06-07 NBA Season Preview/Predictions Thread

Actually SunnyD, I think Boris will be starting now and I don't see Amare off the bench for a while. I think they are starting him off slowly with about 15 minutes a game and working up from there. Stoudemire may only start for about 20-25 games so I think Barbosa has a chance but with Banks there I don't think he'll really get good 6th man minutes to win the award.I agree with most of your important predictions celtic. I changed my mind on the Bulls. I think that the Pistons, like last year, will score a lot of points and they still have pretty good defense so they will win that division. But I really like Chicago's team this year and if Ben Gordon turns more into a scorer for them then I can see the Bulls beating the Pistons in the playoffs.On the Suns, I expect them to do worse in the regular season and finish with the 3rd seed, but I think they'll at least get to the WCF and if Amare continues getting better and better and there are no big setbacks in his return then I expect a championship.Very nice write-up.

 

Re: CelticBalla's 06-07 NBA Season Preview/Predictions Thread

Putting the Knicks over us is a complete joke...Here's what I said to Celticballa in a PM:Hey, in your preview you said that we had nop Center, no defense, and no bench. Rasho is a decent center. He can score garbage points, get blocks, rebounds, and play defense. Bargnani will score points for us, and Pape Sow and Uros Slokar will get in there eventually. Pape hustles 100%. He is a great rebounder, shotblocker, etc..He will not let anyone have an easy pass for a bucket. I dont know much about Slokar, but he can hit the jumper, and play in the post.And how do you think we went 7-1 in pre-season if we had no bench? Fred Jones is electric off the bench, Jose Calderon is a great passer, Garbajosa is a smart player on offense, and he can score, Humphries can score points downlow, and get rebounds, Darrick Martin can shoot, Andrea Bargnani can shoot and score, etc..We have good depth whether you want to believe it or not. And our defense will be much improved. We have Fred Jones, Anthony Parker ( better than Mo), and Mo on wing. Chris Bosh shhowed signs at FIBA, and he says his #1 goal is to be a better defender, and Rasho is a ton better than Charlie V, Loren Woods, and Rafael Araujo.

 

Re: CelticBalla's 06-07 NBA Season Preview/Predictions Thread

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE </div><div class='quotemain'>And how do you think we went 7-1 in pre-season if we had no bench?</div> Because no one cares about preseason games but bad teams maybe? I mean look at the Mavs preseason record and their bench.

 

Re: CelticBalla's 06-07 NBA Season Preview/Predictions Thread

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE (CB4AllStar @ Oct 28 2006, 10:09 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}></div><div class='quotemain'>Putting the Knicks over us is a complete joke...Here's what I said to Celticballa in a PM:Hey, in your preview you said that we had nop Center, no defense, and no bench. Rasho is a decent center. He can score garbage points, get blocks, rebounds, and play defense. Bargnani will score points for us, and Pape Sow and Uros Slokar will get in there eventually. Pape hustles 100%. He is a great rebounder, shotblocker, etc..He will not let anyone have an easy pass for a bucket. I dont know much about Slokar, but he can hit the jumper, and play in the post.And how do you think we went 7-1 in pre-season if we had no bench? Fred Jones is electric off the bench, Jose Calderon is a great passer, Garbajosa is a smart player on offense, and he can score, Humphries can score points downlow, and get rebounds, Darrick Martin can shoot, Andrea Bargnani can shoot and score, etc..We have good depth whether you want to believe it or not. And our defense will be much improved. We have Fred Jones, Anthony Parker ( better than Mo), and Mo on wing. Chris Bosh shhowed signs at FIBA, and he says his #1 goal is to be a better defender, and Rasho is a ton better than Charlie V, Loren Woods, and Rafael Araujo.</div>The Raps have a decent bench but it doesn't anthing to do with preseason. Sure, that is when alot of your bench guys get minutes but they are going up agaisnt alot of teams who dont give a sh*t about the preseason. And if I do remember correctly, Mo Peterson and TJ Ford played alot of minutes agaisnt the C's in one of their first preseason games. The one that went in to OT... As for their defense, it doesn't matter that they have a couple decent to fairly good perimter defenders. Anthony Parker is yet to prove anything in the NBA so you cant say anything yet. I am not ruling out the posibility that he COULD be a good defender, but calling him a good defender before a regular season game is not right. Rasho is a decent center but he is going to find himself on the bench alot due to his lack of offense. Bosh isnt strong enough downlow to be a good defender. He is a average shot blocker or maybe a very little bit above but he isnt anything intimidating downlow to guys like Duncan or Garnett. The Knicks have alot of talent and it shouldnt surprise anyone if they do well. They have the players to do it and they have a coach that picked the players and he might know what to do with them. Im not saying that they are better than the raps, but I wouldnt completley rule them out or call it "a joke".

 

Re: CelticBalla's 06-07 NBA Season Preview/Predictions Thread

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE (CB4AllStar @ Oct 28 2006, 10:09 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}></div><div class='quotemain'>Putting the Knicks over us is a complete joke...Here's what I said to Celticballa in a PM:Hey, in your preview you said that we had nop Center, no defense, and no bench. Rasho is a decent center. He can score garbage points, get blocks, rebounds, and play defense. Bargnani will score points for us, and Pape Sow and Uros Slokar will get in there eventually. Pape hustles 100%. He is a great rebounder, shotblocker, etc..He will not let anyone have an easy pass for a bucket. I dont know much about Slokar, but he can hit the jumper, and play in the post.And how do you think we went 7-1 in pre-season if we had no bench? Fred Jones is electric off the bench, Jose Calderon is a great passer, Garbajosa is a smart player on offense, and he can score, Humphries can score points downlow, and get rebounds, Darrick Martin can shoot, Andrea Bargnani can shoot and score, etc..We have good depth whether you want to believe it or not. And our defense will be much improved. We have Fred Jones, Anthony Parker ( better than Mo), and Mo on wing. Chris Bosh shhowed signs at FIBA, and he says his #1 goal is to be a better defender, and Rasho is a ton better than Charlie V, Loren Woods, and Rafael Araujo.</div> Your officially the most biased NBA fan on this board...You honestly brought up Pape Sow and Uros Slokar to back up your argument? Come on...Why can't you just accept that these are preseason predictions and we'll see what happens...Why get your panties in a bunch over nothing...you've essentially been posting the same thing all off season and everyones heard it and nobody really agrees.

 

Re: CelticBalla's 06-07 NBA Season Preview/Predictions Thread

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE </div><div class='quotemain'>Your officially the most biased NBA fan on this board...You honestly brought up Pape Sow and Uros Slokar to back up your argument? Come on...Why can't you just accept that these are preseason predictions and we'll see what happens...Why get your panties in a bunch over nothing...you've essentially been posting the same thing all off season and everyones heard it and nobody really agrees.</div>I beg to differ.PG: Steve Francis=Ford (though Francis avgs more points, Ford is faster and better playmaker)SG: Stephon Marbury > Anthony Parker is better at defense)SF: Q. Richardson < Morris Peterson (Hes the obvious better player)PF: Eddy Curry < Bosh (Bosh is obviously better)C Channing Frye = Rasho (therye about the same, Rasho is more of a decent defensive presence)The rest of the knicks bench does not even come close to the rest of the Raptors bench and im sure everyone else knows that. We have so much more depth.

 

Re: CelticBalla's 06-07 NBA Season Preview/Predictions Thread

I have to disagree with your entire memphis section. Pau is only out till Janaury and sources are saying not even that long, just the doctors are saying that so if he doesn't come back when expected, the blame wont be on them. Rudy Gay is going to start this year and IS going to make a difference in his rookie season. As for as rookies go, hes having the best pre-season, only 2nd to scoring behind Brandon Roy, but Roy is getting more minutes than Gay. Pau isnt out for entire season, hes going to be back for more games than he will miss. And Damon is fine, he seems to be moving just as fast and playing just as good as last year. We may not make the playoffs, but we will be higher than Utah, Minnesota, and Seattle.

 

Re: CelticBalla's 06-07 NBA Season Preview/Predictions Thread

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE (RaptorFan#1 @ Oct 28 2006, 04:28 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}></div><div class='quotemain'>C Channing Frye = Rasho (therye about the same, Rasho is more of a decent defensive presence)</div>I rarely ever make one-liners, but all I have to say to that is: :HAHAHA: :HAHAHA: :HAHAHA: :HAHAHA: :HAHAHA: :HAHAHA: :HAHAHA: :HAHAHA: :HAHAHA: :HAHAHA: :HAHAHA: :HAHAHA: :HAHAHA: :HAHAHA: :HAHAHA: :HAHAHA: :HAHAHA: :HAHAHA: :HAHAHA: :HAHAHA:

 

Re: CelticBalla's 06-07 NBA Season Preview/Predictions Thread

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE (CelticBalla32 @ Oct 28 2006, 04:31 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}></div><div class='quotemain'>I rarely ever make one-liners, but all I have to say to that is: :HAHAHA: :HAHAHA: :HAHAHA: :HAHAHA: :HAHAHA: :HAHAHA: :HAHAHA: :HAHAHA: :HAHAHA: :HAHAHA: :HAHAHA: :HAHAHA: :HAHAHA: :HAHAHA: :HAHAHA: :HAHAHA: :HAHAHA: :HAHAHA: :HAHAHA: :HAHAHA:</div>beat me to it. Rasho is not good what so ever. He is a decent defensive presence but besides that, he adds nothing. He is awful offensivley. Also, Channing Frye is going to have a great season. As a starter last year, he averaged like 16 and 8 or something like that.

 

Re: CelticBalla's 06-07 NBA Season Preview/Predictions Thread

Nice job Celtic_Balla. looks like that probably took a while. Not a lot I didn't agree with there.BTW CB4 will you please stop whining every single time someone puts the Raptors not in 2nd place like you think. It's annpying. It's only the preseason and everyone has there opinions. Hardly anybody other than Raptors fans thinks they'll be as good as you do so you don't have to complain about it every single time. It's getting so annoying now.

 

Re: CelticBalla's 06-07 NBA Season Preview/Predictions Thread

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE (BrewCityBuck @ Oct 28 2006, 04:11 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}></div><div class='quotemain'>Your officially the most biased NBA fan on this board...You honestly brought up Pape Sow and Uros Slokar to back up your argument? Come on...Why can't you just accept that these are preseason predictions and we'll see what happens...Why get your panties in a bunch over nothing...you've essentially been posting the same thing all off season and everyones heard it and nobody really agrees.</div>I bet to differ also. That Grizzly fan is more biased.<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE </div><div class='quotemain'>PG: Steve Francis=Ford (though Francis avgs more points, Ford is faster and better playmaker)SG: Stephon Marbury > Anthony Parker is better at defense)SF: Q. Richardson < Morris Peterson (Hes the obvious better player)PF: Eddy Curry < Bosh (Bosh is obviously better)C Channing Frye = Rasho (therye about the same, Rasho is more of a decent defensive presence)The rest of the knicks bench does not even come close to the rest of the Raptors bench and im sure everyone else knows that. We have so much more depth.</div>First off, terrible way to compare. I told CB32 that already.But if you have to do it this way, do it rightG Marbury>FordSG Francis>ParkerSF Richardson=PetersonPF Frye<BoshC Curry>RashoBenchG Robinson>CaledronSG Crawford>JonesSF Jeffries=GrahamPF Lee>GarbajosaC James<BargnaniUtl Rose>TuckerUtl Balkman>TuckerI still like the Raptors chances better though.

 

Re: CelticBalla's 06-07 NBA Season Preview/Predictions Thread

<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE (CelticBalla32 @ Oct 28 2006, 06:48 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}></div><div class='quotemain'>Milwaukee over Indiana? Wow, I strongly disagree. Villanueva won't add 5-6 wins. You are failing to mention that Milwaukee also lost their PG. Now, Mo Williams is a good player (and underrated), but he's not the playmaker Ford is. I don't see them improving. Not to mention, they did lose Joe Smith.Center<u>Indiana</u>: Jermaine O'Neal<u>Milwaukee</u>: Andrew BogutIndiana obviously has the edge.Power Forward<u>Indiana</u>: Al Harrington<u>Milwaukee</u>: Charlie VillanuevaVillanueva is a good young player, but at this point Harrington is the better player. Indiana gets the edge at PF too.Small Forward<u>Indiana</u>: Danny Granger<u>Milwaukee</u>: Bobby SimmonsDanny Granger is better than Bobby Simmons. He's a better defender, better rebounder, more athletic, and he can play the 4 too. Once again, Indiana gets the edge.Shooting Guard<u>Indiana</u>: Stephen Jackson<u>Milwaukee</u>: Michael ReddMilwaukee definitely gets the edge here.Point Guard<u>Indiana</u>: Jamaal Tinsley<u>Milwaukee</u>: Mo WilliamsEven, but only because Tinsley is hurt all the time. When healthy, Tinsley is a top 12-15 PG in the NBA, but I'll call it even because Tins is out a lot.Right there, Indiana wins 3-1 with one tie.Bench<u>Indiana</u>: Marquis Daniels, Jeff Foster, Sarunas Jasikevicius, David Harrison, Shawne Williams, James White, Darrell Armstrong<u>Milwaukee</u>: Charlie Bell, Steve Blake, Ruben Patterson, Brian Skinner, Dan Gadzuric, Ersan Illyosova, Lynn GreerIndiana definitely gets the edge with the bench, no contest really.Coaching<u>Indiana</u>: Rick Carlisle<u>Milwaukee</u>: Terry StottsCarlisle is one of the top coaches in the entire NBA. Indiana easily wins.Now, how can you say Milwaukee has the better team?</div>I say it because - O'neal is ALways injured. they have SERIOUS off court issues. Redd is Mil's best and O'neal is indy's. Redd plays most of the year O'neal doesn't. That is enough for me. Harrington is over-rated-CV IS BETTER than him. Granger = Simmons. The Bench of Indy is not better than Mil ? Are you kidding? Bell Patterson DAN-GAD vs Foster haha, Jasikevicius again haha and Marquis daniels who IMO = Charlie Bell. -Stats wise they are close with Daniels playing 8more mins a game last year - Bell shoots at a better clip. You must have been tired when you said that about the benches.Once again Milwaulkee > Indy. I'll put my name on it. - check my sig.and just for the record Jeff Foster hahahaha

 

Re: CelticBalla's 06-07 NBA Season Preview/Predictions Thread

Granger is better than Simmons. Micheal Redd and Charlie Villanueva don't bring the defense Milwaukee needs to contend. Although Tinsley and O'neal are always injured, you can't predict an injury unless it's with Grant Hill. Your just saying that to suck up to BCB.

 

Re: CelticBalla's 06-07 NBA Season Preview/Predictions Thread

I'm feeling your pacers predictionsDon't think Bowen will wind DPOY but that's just my opinion<div class='quotetop'>QUOTE (Clangus @ Oct 28 2006, 08:39 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}></div><div class='quotemain'>I say it because - O'neal is ALways injured. they have SERIOUS off court issues. Redd is Mil's best and O'neal is indy's. Redd plays most of the year O'neal doesn't. That is enough for me. Harrington is over-rated-CV IS BETTER than him. Granger = Simmons. The Bench of Indy is not better than Mil ? Are you kidding? Bell Patterson DAN-GAD vs Foster haha, Jasikevicius again haha and Marquis daniels who IMO = Charlie Bell. -Stats wise they are close with Daniels playing 8more mins a game last year - Bell shoots at a better clip. You must have been tired when you said that about the benches.Once again Milwaulkee > Indy. I'll put my name on it. - check my sig.and just for the record Jeff Foster hahahaha</div>what the heck?no waymilwauke vs Indianaloser/small market vs talent/depth/winnersyou know nothing about the pacers and are only biased, I can prove itjeff foster's 48 minute productivity - 17 rpg perI feel like cursing

 

Re: CelticBalla's 06-07 NBA Season Preview/Predictions Thread

Foster aka Mr. 20 Rebounds against the Pistons is a pretty underrated center. If I were Joe Dumars, I'd try to swing them Dupree or Delfino and a 2nd rounder for him.

 

Re: CelticBalla's 06-07 NBA Season Preview/Predictions Thread

How am I biased? I'm not a bucks fan. DER. And sunny why the f would I suck up to BCB? I have put my name on that prediction -(sig) I dont see any of you doing that. -Pacersfan, your the Biased one.